The SL4 Roubaix has been rumored for a while with larger revised Zertz showing up in spy photos. Each gen of Roubaix is better than its predecessor and no doubt the new SL4 will be outstanding. But I have seen a phenomena in product development that resembles an inverted parabola....ascent of an improving product only to move away from its sweet spot over time. We will see with the new Roubaix. That said, having looked at the new bike from a distance...at least in principle, I have no regrets building up a 2012 Roubaix SL3 which is the best road bike I have owned. In some ways the SL4 maybe moving away from the SL3 and not for the better.
The 2011-12 Roubaix SL3 is a STIFF bike. It isn't a comfort bike...but a race bike with a comfortable geometry if you don't have the flexibility of a gymnast. Will see what the SL4 brings. In particular...a comment about the new seatpost that no doubt will elicit some chuckles.
First, to me...I have 2K miles on my Roubaix this year...the bike doesn't need a softer seatpost. The seatpost that comes on the bike has already been rated most compliant in its class. But moreover, I don't want a softer rear end on the bike or a post with more displacement. It doesn't need it...even with hammering on broken pavement at high speed. If riding off road or extremely broken pavement...I get it for sure. Btw, I hate single bolt seatposts and have replaced the one on my Roubaix with a FSA K-force light. So major shame on Specialized for continuing the single bolt...they could have easily adapted this 'ugly' but compliant post in their 2 bolt design config...but they didn't. The single bolt FWIW takes big torque...120 in-lbs to keep in place...and slips at less torque...and will NEVER be as secure as a 2-bolt...zertz elastomers or not.
All said, I believe that Specialized is the most technically advanced and R&D drjven bike company in the world...perhaps by a wide margin. Their designs are evocative and leading edge and in my experience the best out there.
No doubt the new Roubaix Disc will also engender some controversy. Personally I am fine with caliper brakes but I don't ride in the mountains and perhaps there, they would be an asset. But for my type of riding, I prefer the simplicity of calipers...and the weight saving...and no hydraullic fluid...and no set up hassle...I have discs on my 29er.
2013 Specialized Preview:
http://www.bikerumor.com/2012/07/10/...-roubaix-disc/